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Paper production line expands packaging capacity
General Emballage selects ANDRITZ to build a high-capacity paper production line in Algeria, enabling local testliner and fluting output with improved efficiency and sustainability.
www.andritz.com
Representatives of General Emballage and ANDRITZ at the contract signing for the new paper production line in Naama, Algeria
Paper manufacturing, corrugated packaging, and industrial automation are central to the development of regional supply chains. ANDRITZ AG has been selected by General Emballage to supply a complete paper production line for a greenfield mill in Naama, Algeria. The installation is expected to be the largest paper machine in Africa, with start-up scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2028.
Context: vertical integration in packaging production
General Emballage, a leading corrugated packaging producer in Algeria, is investing in its first paper manufacturing line to secure raw material supply and improve operational control. The facility will produce testliner and fluting grades used in corrugated board production.
The machine is designed for a capacity of 350,000 tons per year, with a web width of 7.5 meters and a design speed of 1,200 meters per minute. This scale reflects increasing demand for locally produced packaging materials and reduced dependence on imports.
Integrated production line and scope
The contract covers a full production line, including stock preparation, paper machine, winder, automation systems, and service agreements. The system is engineered to support high plant availability, reduced resource consumption, and stable product quality.
Stock preparation is optimized for processing 100% old corrugated containers (OCC), ensuring consistent fiber quality while minimizing energy and water consumption. Efficient contaminant removal and fiber development contribute to operational stability.
Paper machine design and performance
At the core of the line is a headbox and gap former configuration designed to balance productivity and product quality. The two-layer headbox enables controlled fiber distribution and turbulence management, which are critical for uniform sheet formation.
The gap former technology supports high dewatering rates and improved mechanical properties of recycled fiber-based paper. This is particularly relevant for packaging applications requiring strength and consistency.
Additional components, including roll covers and machine clothing, are integrated to maintain stable operation at high speeds and production volumes.
Automation and digitalization
The line incorporates advanced automation and digitalization technologies through the Metris platform. This system provides real-time monitoring, process control, and data-driven optimization of machine performance and paper quality.
Supporting technologies include operator training simulators, quality assurance and material tracking systems, and distributed control systems. These tools enable predictive maintenance, process transparency, and improved decision-making based on operational data.
Sustainability and operational efficiency
The production line is designed to reduce fresh water consumption and improve energy efficiency, aligning with industry requirements for sustainable manufacturing. Automation and process control contribute to consistent operation and reduced downtime.
By integrating production, automation, and digital monitoring, the project supports long-term efficiency and scalability in paper manufacturing.
Edited by an industrial journalist, Lekshman Ramdas, with AI assistance.
www.andritz.com
Paper manufacturing, corrugated packaging, and industrial automation are central to the development of regional supply chains. ANDRITZ AG has been selected by General Emballage to supply a complete paper production line for a greenfield mill in Naama, Algeria. The installation is expected to be the largest paper machine in Africa, with start-up scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2028.
Context: vertical integration in packaging production
General Emballage, a leading corrugated packaging producer in Algeria, is investing in its first paper manufacturing line to secure raw material supply and improve operational control. The facility will produce testliner and fluting grades used in corrugated board production.
The machine is designed for a capacity of 350,000 tons per year, with a web width of 7.5 meters and a design speed of 1,200 meters per minute. This scale reflects increasing demand for locally produced packaging materials and reduced dependence on imports.
Integrated production line and scope
The contract covers a full production line, including stock preparation, paper machine, winder, automation systems, and service agreements. The system is engineered to support high plant availability, reduced resource consumption, and stable product quality.
Stock preparation is optimized for processing 100% old corrugated containers (OCC), ensuring consistent fiber quality while minimizing energy and water consumption. Efficient contaminant removal and fiber development contribute to operational stability.
Paper machine design and performance
At the core of the line is a headbox and gap former configuration designed to balance productivity and product quality. The two-layer headbox enables controlled fiber distribution and turbulence management, which are critical for uniform sheet formation.
The gap former technology supports high dewatering rates and improved mechanical properties of recycled fiber-based paper. This is particularly relevant for packaging applications requiring strength and consistency.
Additional components, including roll covers and machine clothing, are integrated to maintain stable operation at high speeds and production volumes.
Automation and digitalization
The line incorporates advanced automation and digitalization technologies through the Metris platform. This system provides real-time monitoring, process control, and data-driven optimization of machine performance and paper quality.
Supporting technologies include operator training simulators, quality assurance and material tracking systems, and distributed control systems. These tools enable predictive maintenance, process transparency, and improved decision-making based on operational data.
Sustainability and operational efficiency
The production line is designed to reduce fresh water consumption and improve energy efficiency, aligning with industry requirements for sustainable manufacturing. Automation and process control contribute to consistent operation and reduced downtime.
By integrating production, automation, and digital monitoring, the project supports long-term efficiency and scalability in paper manufacturing.
Edited by an industrial journalist, Lekshman Ramdas, with AI assistance.
www.andritz.com
